Medicare Explained
If you’re new to Medicare and not sure what coverage is right for you, you’re not alone. People who are turning 65 often have a difficult time organizing things at first. Medicare itself has multiple parts, and Medigap has several lettered plans, making the process fairly confusing.
On top of that, the amount of mail you get doesn’t help you narrow your choices. Some mailers may be worth keeping while others should be discarded. You likely have many questions and concerns. But don’t worry, because Turning 65 with Jonny has answers — and we’ll help you sort through the chaos and explain Medicare in the simplest way possible.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those 65 and older, and under 65 with certain disabilities. It’s divided into four main parts: A, B, C, and D.
Part A and Part B make up Original Medicare.
Part C is better known as Medicare Advantage.
There’s also Medicare Supplement insurance (Medigap) that you can add to your Original Medicare.
Part A
Part B
Outpatient coverage for services that are medically necessary
Part C
Part D
When Does Medicare Start?
If you’ve lived in the United States for at least five years, you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65 — no matter if you’re already taking Social Security income benefits. But some people qualify before 65 due to a disability or illness.
What Parts Do You Have to Enroll In?
A and B are the only parts you need to enroll in at the Social Security office. Enrolling in Parts C and D and buying supplemental insurance will be done outside of that — through an independent agency like Turning 65 with Jonny.
This visual can help you:
Part A and Part B | Enroll with your Social Security office |
Medigap Medicare Advantage Part D | Work with an agent to select a Medigap and Part D plan or Medicare Advantage plan |
How Do You Get Original Medicare?
Social Security has a fast online application. You don’t have to be getting income benefits to enroll. Visit www.ssa.gov/, click on the Menu at the top, and follow the Medicare links to apply.
When Should You Apply?
If you’re not automatically enrolled, you should sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). This is a seven-month window when you can enroll in Original Medicare to avoid late penalties. Your IEP begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends the three months after.
What Are Your Two Primary Options?
We believe that everyone should choose between the two main paths of Medicare.
Option 1: Original Medicare + Part D + some type of Medicare Supplement OR
Option 2: a Medicare Advantage plan.
Can You Get Medicare If You’re Still Working?
Healthy people may not be ready to retire at 65. Continuing to work past this age can be a good thing because it keeps people busy and gives them a sense of purpose. If you’re still working, just be aware that there are some decisions to make regarding your health insurance.
You may wonder, should I keep my employer coverage and also sign up for Medicare so it works with my other insurance? Or, does it make more sense to drop my employer coverage and choose Medicare as my primary insurance, then add a Medicare Supplement plan?
The better option for you will depend on the size of your employer and how much you pay for your share of the employer’s health insurance.
Is Medicare Mandatory?
No, you’re not required to get Medicare when you turn 65. However, you’ll pay the penalty if you sign up late — unless you have other health coverage from a large employer.
Contact Turning 65 with Jonny – We’re On Your Side.
It’s crucial to understand and feel confident in your Medicare choices. But you don’t have to make these important decisions on your own. Instead, get help from a reliable agent who will guide you through the complicated maze.
The team at Turning 65 with Jonny is friendly and knowledgeable, and our service is completely FREE of charge. Call us today!
